FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 18, 2023
Anglican Missions condemns in the strongest terms the attack on Al Ahli Anglican Hospital. Now, more than ever, humanitarian aid and assistance is vital to put people first in this horrific conflict.
[Gaza] – Anglican Missions unequivocally condemns the rocket attack on Al Ahli Anglican Hospital, calling in the strongest terms for a complete ceasefire and end to all hostilities in the region.
Hospitals and civilian infrastructure are protected under International Humanitarian Law; though their mandate is to provide health care, they become sanctuaries; a refuge for civilians seeking protection from the horrors of war. This law has been broken.
Archbishop Don Tamihere, chair of the Anglican Missions board shares his sorrow:
“Our hearts are with the victims of this senseless and unfathomable tragedy.”
Now, more than ever, humanitarian aid is vital to put people first in this horrific conflict. The Church is called to provide hope in times of darkness, to comfort those who mourn and to tend to those in need with loving service. Al Ahli Hospital, its staff and the Anglican Church will continue to do this.
This is a developing situation. However, food, water and medical supplies still need to be procured for patients. Salaries for hospital staff still need to be paid so that they can continue to provide emergency 24-hour care.
The Al Ahli Hospital appeal is still active, and Anglican Missions is continuing to work with the Anglican Alliance and other international Anglican agencies to determine the best way provide humanitarian assistance.
We echo the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby’s words and call to prayer:
“… I mourn with our brothers and sisters – please pray for them. I renew my appeal for civilians to be protected in this devastating war. May the Lord God have mercy.”
Click here to donate to the Al Ahli Hospital appeal.
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For more information, please contact:
Mark Mitchell
Humanitarian and Development Manager
Phone: 021 210 7362
Email: mark@anglicanmissions.org.nz
About Anglican Missions:
Anglican Missions is an international aid, development, humanitarian and mission organisation that works with and on behalf of the Anglican Church in Aotearoa New Zealand and Polynesia. For more information, please visit www.anglicanmissions.org.nz.
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